The explanation is a bit confused
An arm with 5 + 2 stripes on the sleeve = 7 stripes
Holds 1 candle.
17
Conclusion, Q is a military officer who is lighting the Menorah
What US Navy rank has those sleeve stripes?
Now, the candles and the menorah and the positions, likely have another message.
1,2,3 missing in action
ABC agency?
4 is serving, and Q is lighting it up
5 is out of service
6,7,8,9 are lit? I can't see.
F,G,H,I
Maybe the message ends with ABC agency out of service and 4 (D) being brought to life.
And since there is no step 5, maybe we are beginning the final act?